FAQ & Policies for our Retreats, and Surf Pilgrimages

THE SEA TOGETHER EXPERIENCE

What is a Sea Together retreat like?

Sea Together retreats are intimate, hosted group experiences centered around surfing, community, connection, exploration, and the deeper side of surfing.

Each retreat is thoughtfully planned around the location, surf conditions, group, and intended surf level. We create a balance of shared experiences, surfing, group activities, and personal time.

Our retreats are small by design so there is room for meaningful connection, conversation, creativity, exploration, and rest.

Sea Together retreats are not traditional surf camps, and they are not individually customized vacations. They are shared experiences where we get to surf, explore, slow down, and experience a place together.

Most guests come on their own, and most guests leave having made at least one new great friend.

What is the Sea Together retreat ethos?

Our retreats are rooted in community, creativity, exploration, growth, and renewal.

We believe surfing is sacred, community is the foundation, and there is something special about getting women together in a beautiful place to surf, connect, create, and experience something new.

We want our retreats to feel intentional but not overly structured, adventurous but grounded, and social while still giving you space to be yourself.

Come ready to have fun, be present, be flexible, and enjoy the experience together.

Have fun. Be intentional. Be free. Blossom as yourself.

What kind of women come on Sea Together retreats?

Our guests have included artists, doctors, producers, students, mothers, teachers, photographers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and free spirits.

There isn't one type of Sea Sister.

What connects us is a love for the ocean, surfing, exploration, creativity, and meaningful connection.

You belong here.

I'm coming alone. Will I fit in?

Most guests come on their own, so you definitely won't be the only person arriving without knowing everyone. We create intentional opportunities for connection while also leaving room for people to warm up naturally. You don't have to be the most outgoing person in the room. You can be social, quiet, adventurous, introverted, or somewhere in between. And most guests leave having made at least one new great friend.

SURFING & RETREAT LEVELS

How do I know which surf level retreat is right for me?

The location and surf conditions help determine what type of retreat is appropriate, so our retreats will not all be designed for the same level of surfer.

Depending on the location, we will offer:

Mixed-Level Retreats

These are for beginner, intermediate, and advanced surfers to experience a retreat together when the location and conditions allow us to create a good experience for everyone.

Beginner-Only Retreats

These are specifically for newer surfers who already have some experience in the ocean and want to continue building confidence and developing their surfing.

Intermediate/Advanced Retreats

These are for surfers who are more comfortable in the ocean and are looking for more challenging surf, locations, or a more surf-focused experience.

The intended surf level will always be listed before you book so you can choose the retreat that feels right for where you are in your surfing.

Are beginners welcome?

Yes, we love hosting beginners when a surf retreat is designated as mixed-level or beginner-only.

Our beginner-only retreats are for women who have had at least one private surf lesson with any surf school or company prior to joining us and who feel comfortable in the ocean.

You do not need to be an experienced surfer, but you should have some basic experience in the water and feel comfortable being in the ocean before joining us.

If you have never surfed before or don't yet feel comfortable in the ocean, we recommend taking a private lesson before joining a Sea Together beginner retreat.

Will I be held back if I am a more advanced surfer on a mixed-level retreat?

Mixed-level retreats are only offered in locations where we feel the experience can work well for different levels.

If you are an advanced surfer looking for more challenging waves and a more surf-focused experience, our intermediate/advanced retreats will likely be a better fit for you.

The location really matters. We don't try to make every destination work for every level of surfer.

Instead, we choose the type of retreat that makes the most sense for the place we're going.

How do you define beginner, intermediate, and advanced surfers?

Surfing levels can mean different things to different people, so here is how we generally define them at Sea Together:

Beginner
You are still learning the basics of surfing and are working on things like paddling, catching unbroken waves, standing up consistently, positioning, and becoming more comfortable in the ocean. You may have taken a few lessons or surfed independently, but you are still building confidence and consistency.

Intermediate
You are comfortable in the ocean and can consistently catch and ride waves on your own. You have a basic understanding of positioning, paddling out, surf etiquette, and reading waves, and you are beginning to develop your own style and ability to surf different conditions. You may be working on things like turning, trimming, riding green waves, or surfing different types of breaks.

Advanced
You are very comfortable in the ocean and have significant experience surfing a variety of conditions and breaks. You can confidently paddle out and position yourself in more challenging surf, read waves and conditions, and manage yourself in the lineup. You are comfortable surfing more powerful or consequential waves and adapting your surfing to different conditions.

These are general guidelines rather than a test. The goal is to choose the retreat where you will feel both comfortable and appropriately challenged.

If you are unsure which level you fall into, reach out before booking and we can help you determine which retreat is the best fit. We’d love to help!

What types of surf breaks will we visit?

This depends on the retreat, location, conditions, and intended surf level.

Mixed-level retreats will be planned around locations and conditions that can accommodate different levels. Beginner retreats will focus on appropriate, beginner-friendly conditions, while intermediate/advanced retreats may include more challenging waves and surf locations.

Depending on the location, we may surf different spots throughout the region based on conditions, local knowledge, and what is appropriate for the group.

We always want to respect local surf culture and make thoughtful decisions about where we surf.

We will never take a large group of surfers to a local or advanced surf spot. We believe in respecting local surf communities and being thoughtful about where and how we enter the water.

Will we surf every day?

We generally plan to surf throughout the retreat when conditions allow, but you never have to surf every day.

You are welcome to take time to rest, journal, explore, read, or simply enjoy being near the ocean.

Sometimes the best part of a surf retreat is knowing when to slow down.

SCHEDULE & GROUP EXPERIENCE

Is there a set schedule?

There is a gentle structure to each retreat.

A typical retreat may include surfing, breakfast or shared meals, group gatherings, optional activities, journaling, outings, workshops, creative experiences, or group reflection.

The exact schedule depends on the location, surf forecast, weather, group, and host(s).

You will receive a detailed itinerary after signing up, and we may make changes during the retreat based on surf conditions.

Is the retreat itinerary flexible?

Yes. Surf conditions, weather, local conditions, and group needs can all affect the schedule.

We plan carefully, but surfing is dependent on the ocean, so we may change the itinerary to give everyone the best experience possible.

Because these are group retreats, not every part of the itinerary can be individually customized. We ask guests to come with flexibility and a willingness to go with the flow.

Do I have to participate in everything?

No. There will be shared activities as well as personal time, and you are always welcome to take some time for yourself.

At the same time, we ask everyone to respect scheduled group activities, meals, circles, workshops, and other shared commitments.

Can I have alone time during the retreat?

Absolutely. Being part of a group doesn't mean you need to be social every minute.

You are welcome to read, rest, journal, take a walk, explore on your own, or simply have some quiet time.

We want you to have space to be yourself while also being part of the group.

What if I need to have a private conversation with another guest or with Bri?

If you need to have a private conversation with another guest or with Bri, please wait until the current group activity or facilitated time has ended rather than beginning a separate conversation in the middle of the larger group.

This helps protect everyone's ability to be present during group time.

Non-urgent individual questions and requests can usually be handled during breaks or personal time.

Is there a WhatsApp group?

Yes! Each retreat has its own temporary WhatsApp group that we use during that retreat. It is created 5-7 days prior to the retreat, as a way for you to briefly introduce yourself to each other, and also plan if you need any ride sharing for anything.

Then during the retreat, it is used by Sea Together for retreat logistics, updates, meeting points, schedule changes, and communication while everyone is together.

The group is specific to that retreat and isn't an ongoing Sea Together group that we continue monitoring afterward.

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

Do I need to arrange my own transportation?

Yes, unless transportation is specifically stated as included in the retreat details.

Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the retreat, as well as transportation for personal errands or activities outside of scheduled group activities.

This may include rental cars, rideshares, airport transportation, public transportation, transportation to surf shops, or getting to personal destinations.

Guests are welcome to offer rides to one another, but rides are always voluntary and should never be assumed or expected.

If another guest has a rental car or personal vehicle, that vehicle is theirs and is not considered shared retreat transportation unless they voluntarily offer otherwise.

Do I need to arrange my travel plans in advance?

Yes. We collect your travel arrangements during the booking process so we can plan the retreat appropriately.

You can still join a retreat last minute, including within 30 days of the retreat, as long as there is availability and you meet the retreat requirements. However, we may not be able to accommodate additional or last-minute support with travel, transportation, room arrangements, dietary restrictions, or other logistics when you book within 30 days.

Travel arrangements should ideally be finalized and confirmed at least 30 days before the retreat. If you book within that window, please be prepared to make your own travel arrangements and handle any last-minute changes or logistics independently.

Because our retreats are small, last-minute changes can affect the group and our ability to plan transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Do you provide airport transportation?

Airport transportation is only included when it is specifically stated in the retreat details.

Otherwise, guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the airport.

Depending on the location, we can provide recommendations for local transportation options.

SURFBOARDS, WETSUITS & PACKING

Do I need to bring my own surfboard and wetsuit?

Guests are responsible for bringing or renting their own surf equipment unless otherwise stated.

Depending on the location, we can provide recommendations for local surf shops and rental options.

You will also receive a full packing list after signing up.

What should I bring?

You will receive a full Sea Together packing list after signing up, tailored to your specific retreat you signed up for.

Depending on the retreat and destination, this may include swimwear, a wetsuit, sun protection, a hat, sandals, warm layers, comfortable clothing, and a cozy post-surf outfit.

Most surf retreats may also include Sea Together or partner goodie bags.

ACCOMMODATIONS, REST & PERSONAL SPACE

What are the sleeping arrangements like?

Sleeping arrangements vary by retreat and will be clearly described before booking.

During the retreat, guests should not be expected to give up their assigned bed, room, or sleeping arrangement for another guest. If a change is needed, please speak with the retreat host first rather than making arrangements between guests.

We ask everyone to respect the accommodations that have been planned for the group.

What is the bedtime / quiet time like?

We generally begin winding down in the evening, with wind down hours often beginning around 9:00-9:30 PM and lights out and quiet hours around 9:30–10:00 PM, depending on the retreat.

Exact quiet hours may vary by location.

We prioritize rest because good retreats require space to recharge.

Will I have cell service and Wi-Fi?

This depends on the location.

We do encourage guests to use retreats as an opportunity for a little less screen time and a little more presence, while still allowing time to check in with family, work, or anything important to you.

FOOD & WELLNESS

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

We can accommodate many dietary restrictions when we know about them in advance.

Please provide your dietary restrictions at least 30 days before the retreat so chefs or food providers have enough time to plan.

If you have a severe allergy or highly specialized dietary needs, please contact us before booking so we can confirm whether we can accommodate you.

What happens if I get sick during the retreat?

Illness can happen while traveling, and your health comes first.

If you become sick during a retreat, please let Bri know as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to rest, sit out of activities, seek medical care, or leave the retreat early.

We will provide reasonable practical support within the scope of the retreat, but guests are responsible for their own medical expenses and transportation if they need to leave early.

Retreat fees are not refundable or prorated because of illness.

We strongly recommend travel insurance.

If you become ill before the retreat, our standard cancellation policy applies.

Sea Together is not a medical provider.

PLACE, COMMUNITY & LOCAL RESPECT

How does Sea Together approach the places we visit?

We believe surfing is a relationship with the sea, the places we visit, and the people who call those places home.

We make an effort to respect local surf culture and community norms, support local businesses and surf shops, work with local partners when possible, and leave places with care.

Many of our retreats take place in places Bri or other Sea Together hosts has personally lived, grown up at, surfed, or spent significant time in, which allows us to create experiences rooted in a genuine relationship with the place rather than simply visiting as tourists.

Depending on the retreat, we may surf different spots throughout a region based on conditions, local knowledge, and what is appropriate for the group.

How does Sea Together approach sustainability?

We aim to make thoughtful choices about how we travel and operate our retreats.

We keep groups small, support local businesses, work with local people when possible, and encourage guests to be mindful of the places we visit.

We don't believe sustainability needs to mean perfection. We believe it begins with paying attention, making intentional choices, and treating places and people with respect.

BOOKING & CANCELLATION

What is the cancellation policy?

Because Sea Together retreats are small and many expenses are committed in advance, our cancellation policy is firm.

More than 90 days before the retreat

Full refund minus the non-refundable deposit.

61–90 days before the retreat

50% refund minus the non-refundable deposit, or full credit minus the deposit toward a future retreat.

31–60 days before the retreat

25% refund minus the non-refundable deposit, or 50% credit toward a future retreat.

30 days or less before the retreat

No refunds or credits.

You may transfer your spot to another person if you find a replacement who meets the retreat requirements and is approved by Sea Together.

Sea Together is not responsible for finding your replacement.

A replacement may be found at any point before the retreat begins. Once the replacement is approved and payment arrangements are completed, we can process the transfer according to the applicable policy.

All cancellations must be submitted in writing by email. The cancellation date is the date your written cancellation is received.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your transportation, accommodation, and other travel expenses.

If Sea Together cancels a retreat, guests will receive a full refund, including the deposit.

Exceptions to this policy may be made at Sea Together's sole discretion and do not create a precedent for future cancellations.